Step-Up Landscaper

Worcester Housing Authority•Worcester, MA

7d•Onsite

About The Position

The Worcester Housing Authority (WHA) Step Up Program is a two-year apprenticeship program available exclusively to residents of Worcester Housing Authority properties. The program provides participants with meaningful, paid, full-time work experience while developing practical job skills, workplace readiness, and hands-on experience that can support future employment with WHA or other employers. The Landscaping Apprentice typically works 40 hours per week and receives hands-on training while assisting with the maintenance, care, and improvement of grounds throughout WHA properties. Apprentices work alongside experienced WHA employees and receive instruction in landscaping, groundskeeping, seasonal property maintenance, and other related skills. Participation in the Step Up Program is limited to a maximum of two years. Successful completion of the program does not guarantee permanent employment with WHA; however, the program is designed to provide participants with transferable skills and meaningful work experience that can improve their qualifications for future employment.

Requirements

Must be a current resident of a Worcester Housing Authority property and remain eligible for participation in the Step Up Program.
No prior professional landscaping, groundskeeping, or property maintenance experience is required.
Must successfully complete a pre-employment drug screening and physical examination as required by WHA.
Must successfully complete a criminal background screening and meet WHA's requirements for employment. Criminal history will be considered in accordance with applicable law and WHA policy, including the nature and seriousness of any offense and its relevance to the position.
Must be a resident in good standing with WHA, without serious or unresolved tenancy-related violations or conduct that would make participation in the Step Up Program inappropriate.
Ability and willingness to learn new job skills and participate in hands-on training.
Ability to understand and follow verbal and written instructions.
Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and snow.
Ability to work cooperatively as part of a team and interact respectfully with coworkers, residents, supervisors, and members of the public.
Ability to maintain regular and reliable attendance and arrive at work as scheduled.
Ability to safely use landscaping tools, equipment, and personal protective equipment following appropriate training.
Ability to perform the physical requirements of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Commitment to completing assigned work safely, responsibly, and in accordance with WHA expectations.

Responsibilities

Assist with the routine maintenance, care, and appearance of grounds throughout WHA properties.
Perform mowing, trimming, edging, raking, weeding, mulching, planting, sweeping, and other general landscaping and groundskeeping activities.
Assist with seasonal grounds maintenance, including spring and fall cleanups, leaf removal, and preparation of landscaped areas.
Assist with snow and ice removal from sidewalks, walkways, entrances, parking areas, and other assigned locations as needed.
Pick up and properly dispose of litter, debris, branches, leaves, and other materials from WHA grounds and common areas.
Assist with the planting, watering, and general care of grass, shrubs, flowers, trees, and other landscaped areas.
Learn to safely use and maintain landscaping tools, lawn equipment, hand tools, and other equipment associated with grounds maintenance.
Assist WHA maintenance and grounds personnel with landscaping, property maintenance, and related assignments as needed.
Follow established safety procedures and properly use required personal protective equipment.
Maintain tools, equipment, supplies, vehicles, and work areas in a clean and orderly condition.
Follow instructions and complete assigned work in accordance with WHA quality and productivity expectations.
Participate in training, coaching, and other development activities provided through the Step Up Program.
Demonstrate regular and reliable attendance and report to assigned work locations on time and prepared to work.
Perform other related duties and training assignments as required.